The maritime industry is on the cusp of a transformative shift in how it addresses the mental health and wellbeing of seafarers, thanks to innovative solutions like VIKAND’s new wellness data-collection tool. At the recent International Maritime Human Factors Symposium, Ronald Spithout, Managing Director of OneHealth by VIKAND, emphasized the pressing need for ‘Crew Asset Management’ and the role of real-time data gathering in supporting the welfare of those who spend months at sea.
This pioneering tool, developed in collaboration with Danish tech company Scoutbase, is designed to foster an environment where seafarers feel comfortable ‘opening up’ about their mental health challenges. By employing a method called ‘welfare pulse sampling’ or ‘nudging,’ the system generates thoughtful questions based on initial responses. This dynamic approach not only gauges the emotional state of crew members but also tailors subsequent inquiries to delve deeper into their feelings. Should a seafarer express concerning sentiments, the system can facilitate a voluntary connection to a mental health professional, ensuring that help is just a click away.
The engagement levels for this tool have been impressive, with over 80% of seafarers participating actively. This high level of engagement is crucial, as it allows for timely interventions that can make all the difference in a seafarer’s mental health journey. Spithout aptly noted, “The shift to digitalisation in maritime has massively impacted on how we can support our seafarers and protect a ship’s greatest asset, which is its people.” This sentiment underscores a growing recognition in the industry that mental health is not an afterthought but a fundamental component of overall crew welfare.
Yassin Askar, co-founder of Scoutbase, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the importance of leveraging technology to collect anonymous feedback from both seafarers and shore-based personnel. “Using technology which automatically collects anonymous feedback from seafarers and shore-based personnel on safety and critical issues will provide ship operators with insights from across their fleets which will help raise operational standards and safety. Looking after seafarers must be our number one priority.” This proactive approach to mental health aligns with broader trends in the maritime sector, where there is an increasing emphasis on creating a culture of safety and support.
As the maritime industry grapples with the complexities of crew welfare, the implications of such innovations are profound. The ability to monitor wellness in real-time could very well redefine how shipping companies manage their human resources. It opens the door to a future where mental health is prioritized on par with physical safety, potentially reducing incidents of burnout, anxiety, and other mental health issues that have long plagued the industry.
The presentations at the IMO, focusing on safety and wellbeing, reflect a collective recognition that the mental health of seafarers is not just a personal issue but a critical operational concern. As the maritime sector continues to evolve, embracing technology and fostering open dialogues about mental health will be essential steps toward creating a more resilient and supportive environment for those who keep global trade moving. The conversation is changing, and it’s high time the industry not only listens but acts decisively to support its most valuable asset—its people.
